Maxton Suspension Road Test

[Paulb_imp]

Had some good weather in the UK this weekend and got out both days for an evaluation of the Maxton suspension newly fitted to my 2015 CB1100. On Saturday the roads were dry but the temperature was only 50F so I did 100 miles on one of my favourite local roads, the A49. This is a good road with constant fast flowing curves allowing speeds of 60-70mph on most sections with only a few restricted zones. On Sunday the roads were damp but the temperature was 60F and I went out with the Honda Owners Club and we rode a notorious local pass over the Pennines hills called 'The Cat and Fiddle'. This is a narrower road with lots of tight bends and a favourite for local bikers. Before having the new suspension fitted I was convinced that the O/E tyres, Dunlop 205's were less than satisfactory but after doing 250 miles on fast curves and tight bends I've had second thought. The tyres are fine, I just don't think the original suspension was letting them work properly. I am amazed at how the bike has been transformed. Very soon the bike gave me the confidence to take bends at higher speeds and even a couple that I thought I had entered too quickly were handled with ease. This new suspension is absolutely superb.

One thing that the Maxton engineer did mention when I collected the bike was the front mudguard. He suggested I might exchange it for a plastic unit. His reasoning was that the metal bracket on the guard was acting as a fork brace, something which they never recommend on a bike, not even race bikes. He explained that a bike handles better when a certain amount of independant flex is allowed in each fork leg.

[the Ferret]

Good report Paul. Glad you are happy with the suspension changes.

btw you meant 2014 CB right? Only 2015's we have verified were a special edition EX with mag wheels in Japan.

[Paulb_imp]

Good report Paul. Glad you are happy with the suspension changes.

btw you meant 2014 CB right? Only 2015's we have verified were a special edition EX with mag wheels in Japan.

Yes, 2014 model with those pesky wire wheels that I've just had to spend an hour cleaning to ensure all the road salt is washed off. I'll clean them again tomorrow to make sure.